Thessalonian Nut Kritharaki

Thessalonian Nut Kritharaki is a traditional Greek dish that hails from the coastal city of Thessaloniki. Known for its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, this dish combines orzo pasta, known in Greek as kritharaki, with a medley of nuts and herbs. Often enjoyed as a comforting main course or a side dish, Thessalonian Nut Kritharaki is reminiscent of the rich cultural tapestry of Greece, where culinary traditions are handed down through generations.

Ingredients

• Orzo - 1 cup
• Walnuts - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Almonds - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Pistachios - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Onion - 1, finely diced
• Chicken Stock or Vegetable Stock - 2 cups
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Dill - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Feta cheese - 1/2 cup, crumbled
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Salt - To taste
• Black Pepper - To taste

Preparation

To prepare Thessalonian Nut Kritharaki, begin by gathering all of your ingredients and ensuring they are prepped for cooking. Thoroughly rinse the orzo under cold water and set aside. Chop the walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, as well as mince the garlic and dice the onion. Crumble the feta cheese and juice the lemon, setting these ingredients aside for later additions.

Cooking Process

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, add the rinsed orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the flavorful oil and allowing it to toast slightly.

Pour in the chicken stock or vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Ensure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the orzo until it absorbs most of the liquid and is tender, about 12-15 minutes.

Once the orzo is cooked, fold in the chopped walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, as well as the chopped parsley and dill. Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Lastly, drizzle the juice of the lemon over the dish and gently mix in the crumbled feta cheese.

How to Enjoy

Thessalonian Nut Kritharaki can be enjoyed both hot or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Serve it as a main dish alongside a crisp Greek salad or as a side to accompany grilled meats or seafood. For a complete Thessalonian experience, pair it with a glass of aromatic white wine or a refreshing glass of ouzo.

• Savor each bite, enjoying the crunchiness of the walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, juxtaposed with the creamy feta cheese and the lemony zest.
• The herbs add a fresh note that brightens the dish, evoking the scents and tastes of a Greek summer.